What is the Lore of Fallout?
The Fallout series is a beloved franchise of post-apocalyptic role-playing games that has captivated gamers worldwide with its rich and complex lore. The lore of Fallout is a carefully crafted narrative that spans centuries, weaving together a tapestry of events, characters, and factions that shape the world of the game. In this article, we’ll delve into the core of the Fallout lore, exploring its history, key events, and significant characters.
The Origins of the Fallout Universe
The Fallout universe begins in the year 2077, when a global nuclear war, known as the Great War, devastates the Earth. The war is sparked by a conflict between the United States and China over resources and ideology. The war lasts only a few days, but its consequences are catastrophic. The nuclear fallout creates a toxic environment, causing widespread mutations and making the world uninhabitable.
The Vaults and the Vault Dwellers
In the aftermath of the Great War, the United States government creates a network of underground Vaults to protect a select few from the radiation and provide a safe haven for humanity to restart. Vault-Tec, a government-funded corporation, builds these Vaults, each designed to be self-sustaining and isolated from the outside world. The Vaults are populated with individuals chosen for their unique skills and characteristics, known as Vault Dwellers.
The Fallout Timeline
The Fallout series takes place in a post-apocalyptic world, where the remnants of human civilization struggle to survive. The games are set in different eras, each with its own unique storyline and challenges. Here’s a brief overview of the Fallout timeline:
- Fallout (2008): Set in 2161, 84 years after the Great War, the game follows Vault 13’s Vault Dweller, the Chosen One, as they search for a new water chip to replace the failing one in their Vault.
- Fallout 2 (1998): Set in 2241, 80 years after the first game, the sequel follows the Vault Dweller’s descendant, the Chosen One, as they search for the Garden of Eden Creation Kit (GECK) to save their tribe.
- Fallout 3 (2008): Set in 2277, 200 years after the Great War, the game follows the Lone Wanderer, a Vault Dweller who sets out to find their father in a post-apocalyptic Washington D.C.
- Fallout: New Vegas (2010): Set in 2281, four years after Fallout 3, the game takes place in a post-apocalyptic Las Vegas and follows the Courier, a delivery boy who becomes embroiled in a conflict between rival factions.
- Fallout 4 (2015): Set in 2287, 10 years after Fallout 3, the game follows the Sole Survivor, a Vault Dweller who sets out to find their missing son in a post-apocalyptic Boston.
- Fallout 76 (2018): Set in 2102, 25 years after the Great War, the game takes place in a post-apocalyptic West Virginia and follows various factions as they try to rebuild society.
Key Events and Factions
Several key events and factions shape the world of Fallout:
- The Great War: The global nuclear war that devastated the Earth and led to the creation of the Vaults.
- The Enclave: A remnant of the United States government that seeks to rebuild society in their image.
- The Brotherhood of Steel: A technologically advanced organization that seeks to protect humanity from threats both internal and external.
- The New California Republic: A democratic government that aims to unite the warring factions of the post-apocalyptic world.
- The Super Mutants: Creatures created by exposure to the radiation from the Great War, often used as soldiers or mercenaries.
Significant Characters
Some of the most significant characters in the Fallout lore include:
- The Master: The primary antagonist of Fallout 1 and 2, a super mutant who seeks to conquer the world.
- The Enclave President: The leader of the Enclave, who seeks to rebuild society in their image.
- The Courier: The protagonist of Fallout: New Vegas, a delivery boy who becomes embroiled in a conflict between rival factions.
- The Sole Survivor: The protagonist of Fallout 4, a Vault Dweller who sets out to find their missing son in a post-apocalyptic Boston.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Great War?
A: The Great War is a global nuclear war that devastates the Earth and leads to the creation of the Vaults.
Q: Who is the Master?
A: The Master is the primary antagonist of Fallout 1 and 2, a super mutant who seeks to conquer the world.
Q: What is the Brotherhood of Steel?
A: The Brotherhood of Steel is a technologically advanced organization that seeks to protect humanity from threats both internal and external.
Q: Who is the Courier?
A: The Courier is the protagonist of Fallout: New Vegas, a delivery boy who becomes embroiled in a conflict between rival factions.
Q: What is the Enclave?
A: The Enclave is a remnant of the United States government that seeks to rebuild society in their image.
Q: Who is the Sole Survivor?
A: The Sole Survivor is the protagonist of Fallout 4, a Vault Dweller who sets out to find their missing son in a post-apocalyptic Boston.
Q: What is the Vault-Tec?
A: Vault-Tec is a government-funded corporation that builds the Vaults, underground facilities designed to protect a select few from the radiation and provide a safe haven for humanity to restart.
Q: What is the New California Republic?
A: The New California Republic is a democratic government that aims to unite the warring factions of the post-apocalyptic world.
Conclusion
The lore of Fallout is a rich and complex tapestry of events, characters, and factions that shape the world of the game. From the Great War to the various factions and characters, the Fallout universe is a fascinating place to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or new to the series, understanding the lore of Fallout will enhance your gaming experience and provide a deeper appreciation for the world of Fallout.